Wolf Dog Howls
May 30, 2013Zorak the Mantis is Still Growing
May 31, 2013Here are some awesome photos I took of my Slender Bark Scorpion. They are also called Florida Bark Scorpion, Slender Brown Scorpion, and Brown Bark Scorpion
Class: Arachnida
Order: Scorpiones
Family: Buthidae
Description
Adult Description: The adult male bark scorpion (Centuroides gracilis) can get pretty large, measuring about 2 Inches to about 6 Inches. When compared to the adult female C. gracilis which can range anywhere from 2.5 Inches to 4 Inches in length. With these species, their colors may vary, and the females can give birth to baby scorplings with varying colors that differ from either of the parents. These Bark Scorpions can be black, red, or contain stripes and markings which are red, brown, yellow, black, or orange.
Larva Description: Newborn (nymphs) are small and pale at birth, and will begin taking on adult characteristics after their first molt. Males and females mature at different rates. The female nymph will usually reach maturity after the 7th instar while the males are mature around the 6th instar. An instar is the developmental stage of bugs between each molt until sexual maturity is reached.
Ecological Threat: Centuroides gracilis is venomous, like all other scorpions, but are not considered dangerous or deadly. Because of this, there hasn’t been a ton of research conducted on these species. However, it is still considered a threat because it is venomous and will take up residence in homes. From what I understand, their sting hurts really bad but it shouldn’t kill the average person. Allergic reactions should always be considered for people who may be allergic to bees or other insects with venom.
Biology: The gestation period for this species is similar to a human gestation period. It generally varies from several months to just over a year. Females give birth to 25-35 young. After they are born, the babies will climb and attach to the mothers back where they remain until the first molt which can take about one week. After their first molt, they become independent of the mother, and will molt another five to seven times before reaching maturity.
Habitat: This species is normally found in tropical forests hiding under rocks and bark, hence the name. In the United States, where they have been introduced, C. gracilis can be found hiding under rocks, stones, wood piles, and inside or outside buildings and houses.
Unfortunately, some of her babies passed away. Not sure exactly why, it could have been the stress of moving them into a new enclosure.